Final Red Tape Reduction Report Tabled

Government tabled its final Red Tape Reduction report today, Friday, Sept. 10, bringing the project to a successful conclusion.

"The Red Tape Reduction project has had a marked impact on how government proposes, adopts and reviews its laws and regulations," said Michael Baker, chair of the Treasury and Policy Board. "This will likely be the most important legacy of this initiative."

Before a new law or regulation is proposed, or an existing law or regulation can be amended, its "red tape" potential is evaluated.

In May 2000, Premier John Hamm appointed a task force that held public meetings around the province, met one-on-one with leaders of small and large businesses, and initiated reviews of legislation and regulations across government.

As a result, 34 acts and 112 regulations were repealed or updated, or will be the topic of further review. Four commissions were eliminated and various boards were merged.

Mr. Baker said that these regulatory reviews were complex and time-consuming processes. They often included consultation with affected stakeholders, reviews of comparable legislation in other Canadian and international jurisdictions, and other related research.

"All of this was accomplished without additional budgets or resources, while departments and agencies continued to deliver their usual high levels of service to Nova Scotians," said Mr. Baker.

"Government services have changed greatly over the years. Departments have been re-aligned; personal and online services have been expanded. We've made it easier for people to interact with government," said Mr. Baker.

The red tape reduction initiative is one part of how the government is changing the way it works, said the minister.

"Certainly, not all of these changes are the result of the Red Tape Reduction team's work, but they are all indicators of a shift in the focus of government services," added Mr. Baker.

"The red tape reduction culture will continue," said Mr. Baker. "The office of the Treasury and Policy Board (TPB) will continue its oversight role, providing individuals and businesses with a contact point to raise concerns about red tape. Departments will be asked to investigate and report back to TPB."

Copies of this and other Red Tape Reduction Task Force reports are available on the Treasury and Policy Board website at www.gov.ns.ca/tpb or by calling 902-424-8910.